Despite leading at half-time through Sambi Lokonga’s goal, the Hammers fought back to victory, leading to poignant scenes as the Town faithful clapped the players and staff for ten minutes after the final whistle.

“It’s a really, really difficult day,” the manager, who was in tears at the end, said. “I almost lost it when I hugged Locks but it got me when the way the fans reacted.

“I thanked the players and staff in the dressing room afterwards because them, along with the fans and the board, have given me the best 18 months of my life.

“Listen, we didn’t get relegated because of today – it’s been an accumulation of a lot of things but we’ve been on an incredible journey.

“I’m disappointed because in the end I’m responsible that we’ve not been able to do it. The game itself is difficult to process. I thought we showed some good things when we went 1-0 up but they have a lot of quality.”

On the ovation he the players received at the end, the boss added: “It’s very special. I’m not too sure you see that very often in this day and age. Everyone wants success and results and want it right now.

“Our fans have shown an intelligence and understanding through their incredible support and the players have earned that.

“We’ve been on this amazing journey together but in the end this league was just a bit too much.”